Enjoy summer drinks without the calories

I like to have people over in the summertime, and I like to attend backyard barbecues hosted by my friends and family. What I don’t always like, though, is all of the drinking that tends to come with outdoor entertaining. Don’t get me wrong -- I enjoy my cocktails, but I’ve discovered it’s really easy to rack up the calories -- not to mention the energy-zapping combo of hot weather and alcoholic drinks -- when you’re celebrating the season of fun in the sun.

My solution? Mocktails. I am on a huge mocktail kick this summer for three reasons: 1) That 2012 weight loss resolution is looming large; 2) I’m also on a health kick and 3) Water is so boring when everybody else is drinking cold beer, chilled wine and fruity cocktails. Summer is a great time for interesting non-alcoholic drinks, because fresh fruit and milder vegetables like cucumbers are readily available. And herbs! Oh, the herbs! Shake up one of these the next time you host a backyard bash, or just want a refreshing, low-sugar sip for chillin’ on the porch.

Blend together 1 cup diced and peeled cucumber, 5 medium-sized mint leaves, the juice of 2 limes, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1/2 cup filtered water and 3 large ice cubes on high until smooth. Pour into a tumbler, garnish with a cucumber slice and serve immediately.

Raspberry Peach SpritzerHosting an afternoon bash? This fruity cocktail is a great stand-in for a mimosa or Bellini. You might want to start with half of the sugar and taste, though -- if your peaches are ripe and sweet, you might not need all of it.Serves 2

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